The BLU G5 and BLU Vivo XL5 represent BLU's commitment to providing affordable Android smartphones. Both devices target the entry-level market, but subtle differences in potential software optimization and feature sets could make one a better choice depending on your needs. This comparison dives deep into the specifications to determine which phone delivers the most value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a straightforward experience, the BLU Vivo XL5 likely offers a slightly better value proposition. While both phones share the same CPU, BLU's software tuning and potential for longer software support on the XL5 give it a marginal edge.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 - G0090UU | HSDPA 850 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 28 - G0090LL, G0090VV | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/11.5 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 2, 4, 5, 12, 17 - G0090UU | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2019, July. Released 2019, July | 2019, July. Released 2019, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 150.5 x 71.5 x 10.4 mm (5.93 x 2.81 x 0.41 in) | 161.4 x 78 x 9.6 mm (6.35 x 3.07 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 187 g (6.60 oz) | 181 g (6.38 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~293 ppi density) | 720 x 1520 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 78.1 cm2 (~72.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.3 inches, 99.1 cm2 (~78.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 | Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 |
| GPU | IMG8322 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM | 64GB 3GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 13 MP, AF | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 13 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.1, A2DP | 4.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 600 h (2G) / Up to 550 h (3G) | Up to 750 h (2G) / Up to 650 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 21 h (2G) / Up to 16 h (3G) | Up to 30 h (2G) / Up to 24 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Po 3000 mAh, removable | Li-Po 4000 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red, Twilight, Chameleon Blue | Black |
BLU G5
- Affordable price point
- Efficient Cortex-A55 CPU
- Simple and straightforward Android experience
- Potential for limited software updates
- Unknown RAM capacity could hinder multitasking
BLU Vivo XL5
- Potentially better software optimization from BLU
- Efficient Cortex-A55 CPU
- May receive longer software support
- Affordable price point may mean compromises in build quality
- Unknown RAM capacity could hinder multitasking
Display Comparison
Given the limited data, we can assume both devices utilize LCD panels common in this price bracket. Without knowing screen sizes, resolutions, or brightness levels, it's difficult to definitively compare display quality. However, the absence of any mention of features like high refresh rates or Gorilla Glass suggests both displays are fairly standard for budget phones, prioritizing cost savings over premium features. Expect similar viewing experiences in typical indoor lighting conditions.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specifications, it's challenging to assess the imaging capabilities of either phone. It's highly probable that both devices feature a multi-camera setup with a primary sensor and potentially auxiliary lenses for depth or macro photography. However, the quality of these cameras will heavily depend on the sensor size, lens aperture, and image processing algorithms. Given the price point, expect image quality to be acceptable in good lighting conditions but struggle in low-light scenarios. The inclusion of a 2MP macro lens on either device is likely more for marketing than practical use.
Performance
Both the BLU G5 and BLU Vivo XL5 are powered by the same Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 CPU. This indicates comparable processing power for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and basic app usage. The Cortex-A55 architecture is known for its efficiency, but it's not a powerhouse. Performance will likely be adequate for light multitasking, but demanding games or resource-intensive applications may experience lag. The absence of information regarding RAM capacity is a critical omission; more RAM would significantly improve multitasking performance on both devices.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not specified for either device. However, given the Cortex-A55 CPU's efficiency, both phones should offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. Faster charging capabilities would be a significant advantage, but without knowing the charging wattage, it's impossible to determine how quickly either phone can be recharged. Battery life will ultimately depend on usage patterns, screen brightness, and the number of apps running in the background.
Buying Guide
Buy the BLU G5 if you need a simple, no-frills smartphone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use. Its focus is on affordability. Buy the BLU Vivo XL5 if you prefer a device that *might* receive more consistent software updates and potentially benefit from BLU's ongoing software optimization efforts, even if the core hardware is identical.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will either of these phones struggle with popular apps like WhatsApp or Facebook?
Given the Cortex-A55 processor, both phones should handle apps like WhatsApp and Facebook without significant issues. However, running multiple apps simultaneously or using more demanding features within these apps might lead to some slowdowns, especially if the devices have limited RAM.
❓ Are these phones likely to receive Android version updates?
Historically, BLU phones haven't been known for extensive software support. While the Vivo XL5 *might* receive a single major Android update, it's unlikely either phone will receive multiple years of updates. Expect security patches to be infrequent as well.
❓ Can these phones play PUBG Mobile or other graphically intensive games?
While technically possible, playing PUBG Mobile or similar games on either the BLU G5 or Vivo XL5 will likely result in a subpar experience. The Cortex-A55 CPU and likely integrated graphics are not powerful enough to run these games at high settings or frame rates. Expect low frame rates and significant lag.
